My name is Tony Cincotta. Many years ago I was diagnosed with HOCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, a form of heart disease). This was controlled for a time with medication, however unfortunately, the time came for me to have a major heart operation. I was referred to Prof. Paul Bannon (Chairman of The Baird Institute), by my cardiologist Dr. T. Chung. When I met Paul, he explained the whole procedure to me. I knew there would be risks involved with the operation, but I also knew that I would be in good hands. Without hesitation, I told him to “book me in”.

Two months after the operation, I went to see Professor Bannon for my post-operation check-up and was told that it was a success. I will never be 100%, but I have been given a second chance at life. I was so grateful and as a result I offered to organise a variety charity concert with all funds raised going to The Baird Institute. Prof. Paul Bannon informed me that The Baird Institute does not receive any funding from the Government for their research into heart and lung diseases and this amazed me. I immediately contacted many of my friends in the entertainment business who donated their time to appear in the concert. I also approached Burwood RSL Club and they waived all the costs for the use of the room for the event. The concert was held on the 17 July, 2016. I also approached local businesses to sponsor us in some way and managed to gain some sponsorship from Club Five Dock RSL and the Canada Bay Club.

On the night, we had a successful raffle and the total money raised from the sale of tickets and the raffle was over $9,000. A cheque was handed over to the representatives of The Baird Institute for this amount.

I am so thankful to the doctors and staff of The Baird Institute for giving me this second chance at life.

Tony Cincotta